Where's Theresa?

[TheOldLandmark]

Following the shocking news from London, where is the Leader of the U.K and what is her response to this?

I think this is a prime example of why 24 hour news is changing things in a way that's not always for the better.

In previous years she'd be expected to make a statement in time for the 10 o'clock news, if at all today.

Just because 500 journalists are reporting every detail, and non detail, in minute-by-minute detail doesn't mean the PM, police and/or security services should do likewise.

People looking to know what to do should follow the Met's request to stay away from certain areas. There's nothing else folks can/should do right now than that, and the PM has (and certainly should have!) better things to do than come out and make a statement to that effect right now.

Well downing Street released a statement on behalf of the PM. Most people understand the priority here isn't meaningless platitudes, but instead proceeding with the protocol designed to ensure that there is the best actual response possible. I don't like TM but admire the fact she's doing her job, not jumping in front of cameras

shiny I agree with you re Thatcher and Brighton bombings.

Sadly I don't think we can ever stop terrorist acts from people who are willing to die. There isn't any greater deterrent really than 'do that and you will very probably get shot dead' . Makes today's terrorists an even more worrying breed than those before them to which death at least was a deterrent,.

if she did a press conference that would be a secretly nightmare. Police and services have better things to do than be present at a press conference protecting the PM.

If she released a statement, what can she say other than "Our thoughts and prayers... etc etc etc" she won't say much because a)she hasn't spoken to COBRA team yet, b)she can't give any specifics. So what's the point of a statement that doesn't actually say anything?.

What do you specifiacally want her to say OP?

Where the PM could be of value is in providing visible leadership at a time when the country feels threatened and being a figurehead to demonstrate that we are not cowed by terrorism

She is doing her job. What would have happened if she had come out and reported who the terrorist was like C4 news and then it turns out it wasn't.

She is providing leadership. We also aren't privy to what other threats there are either.

I am no TM fan by an stretch but I don't think this constant call for her to be 'seen' is unfair.

The Home Secretary has given a brief statement.

"She's the PM not Ant and Dec"

Post of the day!

I disagree with a PP's disparagement of ministers being involved in briefings, COBRA etc: this is all just part of our governance and democracy. The emergency services accept this and provide whatever information and action it's decided by senior public servants - including politicians - is necessary.

I would, however, really like to see the PM and others in government treat and speak about front line police and other public sector workers much more respectfully.

What exactly would you like her to say at this moment in time OP?

Could you elaborate maybe? Perhaps you could give us a few examples of sample statements she might use.

Is it information you are after?
Reassurance?

You need to be more specific.

What of the victims? Should their images be plastered all over social media now? It's been over 5 hours after all and I for one demand to know exactly who my candlelit vigil will be for this evening.

I am sure all the loved ones of the people involved in this horrific incident today are not waiting on a statement from the PM or anyone else.
There is enough hate in this world without MN turning on each other

paxillin I think it looks weak not to have shown her face and given a brief "it is in hand, carry on" comment.

^this^ no more, no less.

BoffinMum I would have expected her to put out a very short written statement around 6pm or so.

^That too^

I wasn't asking for chapter and verse of what is happening and a detailed analysis of who, what, and why. I did have an expectation of the head figure of the country making some statement within hours of a possible attack on the HOP, where they actually were at that point in time.

AyeAmarok 'Your primary concern was to use a tragic event to have a pop at TM, don't try and sugar-coat it now'.

Sorry no, I was very shocked watching the live news coverage of today. No-one leaves their house expecting not to come home. Even call me Dave and Tony Bliar would have, hopefully, by now, appeared to give their condolences to the families of those affected at the very least.

My thoughts on the reporting and language involved so far are another matter, but that wasn't my AIBU.

Not needing any hand holding while I am safely so far away from the accident scene, but thanks for worrying about me while thousand of people are affected - remind me not to care about anything outside my supposed 'whatever' bubble again.

Still no PM statement/vlog/soundbite/Facebook update, so far?

This is not a personal attack on TM, nor a salve for my supposed wounded feelings - fgs, news now talking about iconic British landmarks (HOP, HOL, Big Ben), and lights off at midnight for the Eiffel Tower. All for a reported 'baldy, white man'? Listening to reports of terrorism, high alert, sheer terror, and confusion.

I'm just asking, and VERY conscious that twenty people were hurt, and four people died today - so saddened, whatever you think of my posts. All of them expected to come home.

I don't care if the PM is a woman, a man, yellow, red, black, or white, where the fuck are they and what do they have to say to...oh, here she is.

Funny how this is only the second thread you have ever posted on OP.

Jeez give her a chance!

She's on tv speaking now..... is that alright for you?

Happy now are you???

She's spoken now. Your op seems in bad taste imho.

Security has to come 1st and as shes an obvious target i would think she's in a safe location having meetings and making sure everything is being done to make sure we are all safe

Thank you Theresa...a great message to send to the UK. Everything that was needed was said.

Sincere condolences to those personally affected by the attack, and a heartfelt thank you to all the emergency services who attended and were involved in such a horrendous day.

Recalling other terrorist attacks: you know one thing I most definitely don't recall about the London bombings? How long it took the prime ministre to respond - to address the public. Not a clue.

As I said upthread. She's a target.

Action first, PR later.

I don't like TM but this thread is ridiculous.

I'd rather she be kept safe and do her job without having to issue statements that won't say anything or help.
Her comments just now we're very good though.

She immediately left all her MPs (who were left locked up inside because it was safe enough) to go and see how she could use this to her advantage.
That's what she does always, doesn't she?

Ooh Valentine2, I think you're onto something there: I'd say she arranged it all to make herself look good. Call off the investigation!! Teresa May arranged it all!!!

Nothing to do with protocol.

Ffs Valentine,really?

Valentine2, that was a crass and insensitive comment. And I say that as someone who is not a fan of the PM.